Ariz. K9 killed pursuing suspects; fourth K9 death this year

BENSON, Ariz. — A highway patrol dog helping chase two people fleeing from police was struck and killed by semi-tractor trailer Monday.

The Department of Public Safety canine was helping in the pursuit after an officer stopped a Chevrolet pickup truck for speeding on Interstate 10 outside of Benson.

The two suspects fled from the truck after a very short pursuit by the officer. The dog was helping the officer pursue the two suspects. The suspects were taken into custody. But the semi truck struck the dog, which died at the scene.

The officer also found a large amount of marijuana in the truck.

This canine death follows the March death of a Mesa Police Department dog that was struck and killed by a vehicle after chasing a suspect.

In addition, two dogs have perished from heat related illnesses: a Phoenix Police Department canine died in March, and a Chandler Police Department canine died earlier this month.